Georgia Southern University is transforming warehouse operations in southeast Georgia through cutting-edge simulation technology. Led by Dr. Kamran Kardel, a team of experts and students uses digital twins and IoT tools to boost efficiency for local companies like Crider Foods.
Project Sparks from Industry Funding
A recent grant from Crider Foods kicked off this ambitious effort at Georgia Southern’s Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing. The funding supports the Remotely Operated Warehouse Services Lab, where researchers build virtual models of real warehouses.
This initiative comes at a key time as logistics firms face rising demands for speed and accuracy. With global supply chains under pressure from events like the 2025 shipping delays caused by port strikes, tools like these simulations offer a way to test changes without real-world risks.
The team focuses on common warehouse tasks such as picking items, packing orders, and shipping goods. By mirroring these processes in a digital space, companies can spot bottlenecks early and make smart adjustments.
Digital Twins Drive Efficiency Gains
Digital twins act as virtual copies of physical warehouses, powered by AnyLogic Software. These models pull in live data from sensors and devices to simulate operations in real time.
Experts predict that digital twins could cut warehouse errors by up to 30 percent, based on industry reports from 2025. This technology lets managers experiment with layouts or robot placements without halting daily work.
In southeast Georgia, where agriculture and manufacturing dominate, such innovations help small firms compete with giants. For instance, Crider Foods, a major poultry processor, stands to streamline its storage and distribution through these simulations.
The integration of Internet of Things devices adds another layer. Cameras, robots, and sensors feed data into the system, creating responsive models that adapt to changes like sudden inventory shifts.
Team Composition and Expertise
Dr. Kamran Kardel, an associate professor in manufacturing engineering, leads the group. He teams up with Dr. Ryan Florin from computer science, bringing together skills in engineering and tech.
Students play a big role too, gaining hands-on experience that bridges classroom learning with real jobs. This mix ensures the project stays practical and forward-thinking.
Their work aligns with broader trends, such as the rise of Industry 4.0, where smart tech reshapes factories and warehouses worldwide.
Benefits for Students and Industry
Undergraduate and graduate students dive into every stage of the project, from design to testing. Many say it’s their first chance to connect directly with employers, building resumes and networks.
For companies, the simulations promise cost savings and faster operations. A 2025 study from logistics groups shows that optimized warehouses can reduce energy use by 20 percent through better planning.
Here are key advantages for involved parties:
- Students get real-world skills in simulation and IoT.
- Businesses test ideas risk-free, avoiding costly mistakes.
- The region gains a competitive edge in logistics.
This hands-on approach also prepares the next generation for jobs in a field expected to grow by 28 percent by 2030, according to labor market data.
Collaboration extends beyond campus, with talks of shared research positions with Ireland’s South East Technological University. Their Lean Industry 4.0 Lab specializes in IoT, potentially expanding the project’s reach.
Regional Impact and Future Outlook
Southeast Georgia’s logistics scene varies, with some warehouses fully automated and others still manual. This project aims to level the playing field, helping local firms adopt tech without huge upfront costs.
By focusing on areas like Bulloch County, home to Georgia Southern, the effort supports economic growth. Recent developments, such as the 2025 expansion of Savannah’s port, highlight the need for efficient inland operations.
The team plans to validate simulations in the lab before sharing with partners. This step ensures reliability, building trust in the technology.
| Aspect | Current Challenge | Simulation Solution | Expected Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inventory Management | Manual tracking leads to errors | Real-time IoT data integration | Reduces stockouts by 25% |
| Workflow Optimization | Inefficient layouts cause delays | Digital twin testing | Speeds up operations by 15-20% |
| Energy Use | High due to poor planning | Predictive modeling | Lowers costs by up to 20% |
| Scalability | Hard to expand without risks | Virtual scenario planning | Enables growth without downtime |
Looking ahead, Kardel envisions broader applications, perhaps in other sectors like healthcare logistics. As automation becomes standard, this research positions the region as a hub for innovation.
What do you think about this tech push in logistics? Share your thoughts in the comments or pass this article along to others interested in supply chain advancements.
